Should I change to stage 3 milk

[lumpybananapuree]

Ds2 is 6 months. He's still on stage 1 formula. Do I need to change to stage 3? Ds1 is 2.6yrs. I don't remember there being a stage 3 but he was on stage 2 so I probably just stayed on that.

no, you can stay on stage 1 till he is one, then go to full fst fresh milk.

So why is there a stage 3?

Because formula companies can market milk that is not for newborns in ways that they are not allowed with stage 1 milk!

Ah! No nutritional benefit then??

pure marketing

Ok, thanks!

Yep, various info I've been given from HV and on an NHS leaflet about weaning say that follow on milks are 'not necessary or recommended' and you should stick to first stage formula until baby is one. Bit of a con, eh?

The only problem with sticking to stage 1 forumla is that it is illegal to discount it or offer any promotions on it.

Stage 3 generally has higher levels of iron, which weaning babies need (whether or not it is bioavailable is another argument ) and can be discounted and offered as part of promotions.

So while it might not offer any great nutrional benefits above Stage 1 milks, it is often cheaper and you can get club cards, nectar points etc with it.

I also read that stage 3 or 1yr+ was meant to make them feel less full and encourage them and so will help leave room for solid food.

TheSugarPlumFairy - stage 3 milk may have more iron in etc, but if a baby is aged 1 or over and parents are concerned about a lack of this in their diet, can't they use vitamin and iron drops instead? If so, I'll be going down this route instead as I'm looking forward to getting shot of the formula as soon as possible...!

Stage 3 is suitable from 6 months though so can be used from then until you move to cows milk. I did switch and also switched brands as it worked out cheaper than what I was already using. Didnt switch till around 9 months though.

theborrower yep i am sure you can.